5:14 Highlights of the Baltimore Ravens against the Pittsburgh Steelers from Week 12
“It’s not about whether or not guys want to play,” he said. “It’s about whether or not our safety is actually being taken into account. I can’t say much more than that.”
Griffin, who suffered his hamstring injury in the second quarter, said “I’ve never pulled a hamstring in my life. You see guys going down left and right.”
That was last Wednesday, and regardless of the cases, the show went on. Thankfully, since then, the Ravens have reported no new positives.
But it’s not as simple as the starters stepping straight in. Jackson was only activated on Sunday, allowing time for just one full practice on Sunday and a walk-through on Monday, according to the Ravens’ team website.
Pro Bowl tight end Mark Andrews will be one who doesn’t make it back onto the active roster on time and will miss the game.
Losing 22 players – albeit players with varying roles and importance – is not easy to quickly recover from. Are they physically fit and healthy? Have they been able to practice the game plan?
Like Griffin, corner Jimmy Smith suffered a muscle injury (groin) against Pittsburgh. Are players more at risk without their usual routines in place?
Regardless of coronavirus issues, injuries, and their disappointing mid-season form – where they have fallen to defeat in four of their last five – the Ravens need to come together and turn it around.
3:54 A look back at the action and talking points from Week 13 of the NFL season
In 2019, the Ravens averaged 33.2 points per game. They haven’t even gone over 30 once since Week Six against Philadelphia, on October 18.
The good news is they are facing a Dallas side that is giving up over 32 points per contest, so now could be a chance to ‘get right’.
Baltimore’s sturdy defense has also been holding up its side of the bargain too, so far.
They will need both sides to perform to reach the postseason in a tense AFC playoff race this year. One of the Indianapolis Colts (8-4) or Tennessee Titans (8-4) will have a shot at a wild card berth. The Cleveland Browns (9-3) currently lead the way there with the Steelers occupying the lead in the North.
The Miami Dolphins (8-4) and Las Vegas Raiders (7-5) are both currently keeping the Ravens (6-5) out, while the New England Patriots (6-6) won’t let any team ahead of them have it easy.
Tuesday night’s game with the Cowboys will be pivotal for the Ravens. Can they keep themselves in the hunt after their difficult few weeks, or could it be all over already?
Watch Ravens vs Cowboys on Tuesday night/Wednesday morning at 1am on Sky Sports NFL and Main Event.
Sourse: skysports.com
